Diriyah is beginning a new chapter, with the opening of its UNESCO World Heritage Site At-Turaif to the public on 4 December 2022. At-Turaif is the original home of the Al Saud family and the seat of governance of the first Saudi State.
Located north-west of Riyadh, At-Turaif in Diriyah is considered the birthplace of modern Saudi and is regarded as one of the most important heritage sites as well as a symbol of Saudi identity.
The opening season will include a vibrant public program of events, performances, and activities for all visitors to experience, which will celebrate and bring the heritage site and birthplace of the kingdom to life.
Visitors will be able to walk through a vast heritage site of restored mudbrick palaces, mosques, former defensive towers, and curated galleries that tell the definitive story of Saudi Arabia’s formation and the rise of the Saudi dynasty. A beautiful example of the distinct Nadji-style architecture, At-Turaif is one of the most historically significant and architecturally impressive mudbrick settlements in the world.
HE Ahmed Al Khateeb, Minister of Tourism, Secretary-General, and a member of the DGDA Board of Directors, opened the commemorative Najdi doors for the official launch of At-Turaif and Bujairi Terrace
Ahead of the official opening, DGDA held a special gala dinner. (Pictures above)
Bujairi Terrace
Overlooking the ancient crossroads of culture and trade that is At-Turaif, Bujairi Terrace is the dining destination within Diriyah – an F&B powerhouse – which will house a collection of the world’s premium food and beverage brands.
Jerry Inzerillo, Group CEO, DGDA, stated: “The opening of Bujairi Terrace demonstrates tangible progress in the implementation of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 strategy, and is an exciting illustration of the far-reaching and ambitious national transformation which we are all honored to contribute to. The exciting mix of local Saudi and internationally renowned restaurants will help ensure Bujairi Terrace lives up to its promise of becoming the Kingdom’s premier fine dining destination.”
Interview with Mohamad Saad
This year, we will be delivering the first elements of the $50.6 billion project,” said Mohamed Saad, the vice president of DGDA, in August to Construction Week Saudi.
He added that Bujairi Terrace, Diriyah’s premium dining district, which is also opening to the public, will include fully pedestrianised precinct will be home to over 20 restaurants, including four Michelin-starred restaurants as well as a carefully curated mixed offering of local Saudi food and international cuisine.
“As with all the buildings in Diriyah, Bujairi Terrace’s restaurants and beverage offerings will be built using authentic 300-year-old methods from mud bricks in the traditional Najdi architectural style of the region, known for its clarity and functional beauty, emblematic of the purity of the Saudi people.”
Saad said in conclusion: “Looking to the longer-term, through projects like Diriyah, Saudi business owners have the opportunity to invest directly in hotel ownership to facilitate a more diverse ownership of brands.”
He noted that Diriyah is well positioned to showcase what sets Saudi apart as a global tourism destination which is increasing the momentum regarding interest and investment in the sector in Kingdom.
Author
